Jake Gyllenhaal likes that Donnie Darko’s ending is so strange

Before diving into this news story, I must confess that I consider Donnie Darko to be one of the greatest films ever made, and I won’t apologize for the enthusiastic praise I’m about to unleash! This movie is undeniably strange and mind-bending, but that’s precisely what makes it so extraordinary—and it seems Jake Gyllenhaal feels the same way.

Gyllenhaal has built an impressive career, showcasing a wide variety of remarkable roles. However, it’s hard to imagine where he would be today without the impact of Donnie Darko, which was released back in 2001.

In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Gyllenhaal looked back on his journey in Hollywood, and when Donnie Darko came up, he acknowledged its bizarre ending but expressed his fondness for it. He humorously recounted, “I remember finishing the script of Donnie Darko and thinking, ‘I don’t know if I want to meet with this person.’” But then he met Richard Kelly, the film’s director, who turned out to be “this really lovely, regular guy.”

The very next day, Gyllenhaal was offered the role, marking the beginning of what he describes as one of the most impactful experiences of his filmmaking career. He shared, “I think it’s a movie about the power of the unconscious and what it means to grow up.”

He elaborated, “This was a portrayal of adolescence that felt far from typical but resonated much more truthfully with me.” Gyllenhaal noted that the film’s ending raises countless questions, which he believes is a hallmark of a successful story. “I just like that it’s a movie that messes with you a bit,” he concluded.

Indeed, Donnie Darko is far from your average coming-of-age film. Its ambiguity and mystery are key factors that have cemented its cult status over the years. The thrill of not having all the answers is part of the charm, and it’s a big reason why I’ve watched Donnie Darko over a hundred times (and yes, I mean it!).